I didn't sleep.

I stood there for what seemed like hours, staring at the tarp above me, listening to the quiet movements outside the tent. Nothing in this place seemed neglected. Even the silence had structure, as if every sound was only allowed when necessary.

Rayen finally fell asleep, though not deeply. She could tell by the way her breathing changed, becoming light and irregular, as if her body refused to fully relax.

I envied her, a little.

At least she could pretend.

I don't.

After a while